Architectural Highlights: Futuristic architecture

Written by Engel & Völkers on 11/6/15

Futuristic architecture is transforming the skylines of cities around the world, as statement buildings rise up in place of traditional rectangular skyscrapers. The aesthetic is instantly recognisable: minimalist yet bold, using clean lines and offbeat design features to create visually arresting silhouettes. These ten examples of futuristic properties show that, despite some unifying characteristics, the only limits for this movement are in the imagination of the architect.

Previously known as Infinity Tower, this 75-storey building is renowned for its unique twisted design. The top floor is offset 90˚ from the foundation: the rest of the building spirals gradually upwards.

Tjuvholmen Icon Building, Oslo

Designed by Renzo Piano, this arts and culture centre has rejuvenated a disused area of the city harbour. The use of Norwegian wood tones down the application of a sculptural glass roof, which shelters the three buildings in this complex. Each angular building is linked by bridges over man-made canals, while the outdoor space incorporates a sculpture garden.

Architects drew inspiration from local nomadic culture to create this huge, transparent tent, which covers an area of over 100,000 square metres. The name, Khan Shatyr, translates as 'Tent of the Khan'. It provides much-required meeting space for the residents of Kazakhstan's capital, as winter temperatures frequently plummet to -35º Celsius.

The Dancing Building, Prague

This collaboration between Vlado Milunić and Frank Gehry juxtaposes futuristic glass and steel with the surrounding Baroque, Gothic and art nouveau architecture, taking inspiration from Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to create a sense of movement within the fixed structure.

This astonishing urban park bears closer resemblance to the CGI graphics in a science-fiction film than conventional architecture. Highlights include the Supertree Grove; vertical gardens reaching up to 16 storeys high.

Futuristic stalwart Zaha Hadid took inspiration from the Möbius Strip in designing this sloping structure. The building provides a stark contrast to the monumental Soviet architecture that characterises Baku.

Tower Infinity, Seoul

An LED facade and clever camera work will allow this as-yet unfinished skyscraper to 'disappear', as a statement against the worldwide contest to build the biggest and most prominent buildings.

Geometric shapes and a crystalline design play with light, colour and sound in this eye-catching harbour-side building. By night, the building's LED lights reflect off the surrounding water.

If you are planning to invest in a piece of futuristic architecture, contact Engel & Völkers. With an international portfolio of high-end properties in varied architectural styles, our local licence partners can guide you towards avant-garde apartments, modernist mansions and exciting new developments in cities worldwide.